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Rules of Thumb in Calculating Magnetic Force

A magnetic field is created by the movement of electric charges through metal. The existence of a magnetic field creates a real force that influences its surroundings. This force depends on the direction of the current and the field (the direction of the
field lines) and their intensity. There are a few simple rules for determining the direction of this force. In fact, you can see it simply by using your hand. The video demonstrates the force and shows how to identify its direction.

This video is part of the project “The tabletop explainer” by Dr. David Colarusso

The subtitles were written by the Davidson Online team

We would like to thank Dr. David Colarusso for his help.

Click for more information on magnetic fields.

Click for more information on the right-hand rule

By Erez Garty

Department of Biological Chemistry

Weizmann Institute of Science

Note to readers

If you think the explanations are not sufficiently clear, or if you have any questions on the topic, you’re welcome to write to us in the comments below, and we will respond. Suggestions for improvement and constructive criticism are always welcome.

 
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